Modeling and Investigating the Cell Membrane

Disciplinary Core Ideas

• All living things are made up of cells, which is the smallest unit that can be said to be alive. An organism may consist of one single cell (unicellular) or many different numbers and types of cells (multicellular). (MS-LS1.A Structure and Function)
• Within cells, special structures are responsible for particular functions, and the cell membrane forms the boundary that controls what enters and leaves the cell. (MS-LS1.A Structure and Function)

Science and Engineering Practices

• Develop a model to predict and/or describe phenomena. (Developing and Using Models)
• Develop a model to describe unobservable mechanisms. (Developing and Using Models)
• Conduct an investigation to produce data to serve as the basis for evidence that meet the goals of an investigation. (Planning and Carrying Out Investigations)
• Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for phenomena. (Analyzing and Interpreting Data)
• Scientific knowledge is based on logical and conceptual connections between evidence and explanations. (Connections to Nature of Science)

Crosscutting Concepts

• Phenomena that can be observed at one scale may not be observable at another scale. (Scale, Proportion, and Quantity)
• Complex and microscopic structures and systems can be visualized, modeled, and used to describe how their function depends on the relationships among its parts. (Structure and Function)

Common Core State Standards—ELA/Literacy

• Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks. (RST.6-8.3)
• Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content. (WHST.6-8.2)

Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.

• Comprehensive Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
• Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis items
• Materials necessary for the investigation (beyond common classroom items)
• Safety Data Sheets